Ahead of Connections Luxury Argentina, Alejandra Grispi, Sales Manager at the Regent Berlin hotel, lists her top tips for a first-time visit to Buenos Aires.

NEIGHBOURHOODS

San Telmo: “I love San Telmo’s architecture, its little streets, the tango dancers in the street – there’s just something special about it! I prefer to enjoy the neighbourhood during the day and at the weekend. On Sundays there’s a traditional market, and you can feel the tango spirit – try a “milonga” (a place where the tango is danced).”

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Palermo: “Young and a bit more alternative, this neighbourhood has nice restaurants and bars. You can also visit Plaza Serrano’s market during the weekend to shop for souvenirs, and hippie-chic-style clothing, but I also love this place during the evenings, especially the bars around Plaza Serrano and Plaza Armenia. Check out Las Cabras restaurant.”

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Delta el Tigre: “A natural space, with the river and a little island, not so far from Buenos Aires, offering very different views from the city centre.”

Puerto Madero: “The modern, wealthy business district of Buenos Aires, where you also have the port and some great meat restaurants. You can take a three-hour boat trip (one hour by speedboat) and spend a whole day in Colonia del Uruguay, a very old, beautiful little city.”

ACTIVITIES

Un dia de Estancia: “Spend a day in San Antonio de Areco and its surroundings. It’s an example of the ‘pampa’ countryside, where you can enjoy the gaucho experience! It’s touristy, but worth doing. The ‘estancia’ (estate) I know is named: “La Cina Cina” and they prepare a great ‘asado’ (barbecue).”

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Café Tortoni: “A historical café in the very heart of Buenos Aires. It’s very old and traditional – and very touristy, but it has so much history.”

El Teatro del Colon: “Beautiful. If you’re into opera or ballet, and at certain times, you can arrange a tour to learn more about the building.”

BEYOND BUENOS AIRES

Salta La Linda: “Incredible, interesting city, with a beautiful architecture. A wonderful place to get to know the local people. You can also buy some original homeware for a great price. For me, it also has the best empanadas in Argentina! I also recommend Salta’s incredible white wine.”

Iguazu Falls: “Take time to observe the birds, the butterflies, and soak up energy from those magnificent waterfalls! If you like adventure, do an excursion with La Gran Aventura. They take you right up to the waterfalls, and you’re completely soaked by the end, but the experience is great. The national park is also very beautiful at night.”

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Patagonia: “One of my favourite regions in Argentina (and Chile). My favourite places are Bariloche, San Martin de los Andes, El Bolson, Villa la Angostura (in North Patagonia) or Calafate,

El Chalten, Ushuaia (in South Patagonia). My best experience was “mini trekking” around Perito Moreno glacier – wonderful! Enjoy!”

Connections Luxury in Argentina takes place from October 1-4. To enquire about attending, please contact Micaela on micaela@weareconnections.com